Daily ChallengeTuesday May. 03, 2011

For a healthy, protein-filled snack, have 12 nuts today.

How to do it

When hunger hits, go nuts and snack on unsalted walnuts, almonds, macadamias, pecans, or peanuts. Because the calories and fat in nuts add up quickly, stick to just 12 nuts - you can remember this number by eating one nut for each month of the year! You can find nuts in the supermarket or convenience store. Or buy them in bulk, which will lower the cost. If it looks like a no-nut day is in store, then add unsalted nuts to your shopping list. Allergic to nuts? Try edamame or unsalted soy nuts instead.

Why it matters

Nuts are nature's healthy snack! Some nuts boast large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help keep your ticker in top shape. All nuts help to fill you up and curb hunger, thanks to their protein and fiber. Plus, nuts are easy to carry and eat, and their crunch is satisfying.

Fun fact

The world's largest peanut butter and jelly sandwich was created on November 6, 1993, in the town of Peanut, Pennsylvania. It contained 150 pounds of peanut butter and 50 pounds of jelly and measured 40 feet long.